open-ended

/ˈoʊ.pən ˈɛn.dɪd/

allowing multiple possible answers or outcomes

The teacher asked an open-ended question to encourage discussion.

The question was designed to have no single correct answer, promoting critical thinking.

general

allowing for multiple possible answers, interpretations, or outcomes

The survey used open-ended questions to gather detailed feedback.

Participants could respond freely rather than choosing from predefined options.

The open-ended nature of the experiment allowed for unexpected discoveries.

Researchers could explore various outcomes beyond the initial hypothesis.

Often used in education, research, and design to foster creativity and flexibility.

Collocations

open-ended questiona question that does not have a single correct answeropen-ended discussiona conversation where any topic can be explored

a question that allows for various responses

Open-ended questions help students think critically and express ideas freely.

Ensure the context makes it clear whether 'open-ended' refers to flexibility or lack of constraints.

From 'open' (allowing access or participation) + 'ended' (having an ending), but used to describe something without a fixed conclusion.

Common in education, psychology, and business contexts to describe processes or questions that encourage exploration.

open

allowing access or participation

root

ended

having an ending (but used to imply no fixed conclusion)

root

English Dictionary